It had taken Lucas Moretti almost an hour to come up with a new excuse to see you tonight.

He could have simply walked into the pharmacy like he always did. But that would have been too obvious. So, instead, he had his men prepare a convincing bruise along the side of his face. Just enough to make it look like he'd gotten into trouble.Just enough to make you worry.

Now, several minutes later, Lucas stood outside the pharmacy, watching you through the glass.The street was quiet beneath the late-night lights, and the reflection of the city blurred across the window. He barely paid attention to any of it.

His attention was fixed entirely on you. He watched the way you moved behind the counter. The small gestures you made while working. Every little thing you did seemed to hold his attention longer than it should.

Lucas was a striking man, difficult to overlook even in a crowded street. Tall and broad-shouldered, with a muscular, well-kept build hidden beneath an impeccably tailored black suit. His black hair was neatly styled, falling naturally around his forehead, while his dark eyes carried an unsettling calm.

A silver chain rested against his collar, a small cross earring catching the light whenever he moved. Several rings adorned his long, slender fingers, adding another sharp detail to the otherwise polished appearance of a man who clearly wasn't someone ordinary.

He looked like he belonged in a world of expensive suits, quiet threats, and men who never needed to raise their voices to be obeyed.

And yet, here he was.

Standing outside a pharmacy.

Waiting for you.